Materials & Gemstones

What we use and why it matters

Fine jewelry is defined by its materials. We use only precious metals and gemstones that meet strict standards for purity, durability and provenance. Below is an overview of what goes into SANSER pieces and how we communicate quality to you.

Precious Metals

We work in 18K yellow gold, 18K rose gold, 18K white gold and platinum PT950. We do not use 9K or 14K in our principal collections; 18K offers an optimal balance of richness of colour, hardness and longevity for daily wear.

  • 18K gold (750 fineness): 75% pure gold by weight, with alloy metals that determine colour and workability. Yellow gold uses copper and silver; rose gold has a higher copper content; white gold is alloyed with palladium or nickel and is typically rhodium-plated for a bright white finish. Rhodium may need re-plating over time.
  • Platinum PT950: At least 95% platinum by weight. Dense, hypoallergenic and highly resistant to tarnish, it is a preferred metal for engagement rings and wedding bands. It develops a soft patina with wear that can be polished back to a high shine if desired.

Metal content and fineness are stated on product tags and documentation. All our metals comply with relevant standards (e.g. Hong Kong and international hallmarks where applicable).

Diamonds

We use natural diamonds and, where clearly disclosed, lab-grown diamonds. Both share the same physical and optical properties; we believe in transparent disclosure so you can make an informed choice.

  • Cut, clarity, colour and carat (4Cs): We select stones for brilliance, durability and consistency within each design. Principal diamonds are chosen for high cut grades and clarity appropriate to the setting; colour grades are stated where relevant.
  • Certification: Centre stones of 0.30 ct and above are accompanied by reports from GIA, IGI or equivalent laboratories. These reports document the 4Cs and, for natural diamonds, often include a plot of inclusions. Melee and smaller accents are subject to our internal quality criteria and may be covered by batch or lab documentation.
  • Origin: Lab-grown diamonds are explicitly identified in product descriptions and on documentation. We do not misrepresent origin.

Coloured Gemstones

Emeralds, rubies, sapphires and other principal coloured stones are sourced with attention to colour, clarity and stability. We disclose origin and treatment where known and where relevant to the stone's value and care.

  • Rubies and sapphires (corundum): Hardness 9 on the Mohs scale; suitable for daily wear. Heat treatment is common and is disclosed. We avoid stones with unstable or heavily invasive treatments where possible.
  • Emeralds: Often clarity-enhanced with oils or resins; we disclose this. Emeralds are more fragile than corundum and require gentler care (no ultrasonic or steam cleaning).
  • Other stones: Tanzanite, spinel, tourmaline and other principal stones are described with type and, where applicable, origin and treatment. Significant stones may be accompanied by certificates from recognised labs.

Pearls

We use cultured pearls—South Sea, Akoya, Tahitian and freshwater—selected for lustre, surface quality, shape and matching in strands or multi-pearl designs. Origin and type are stated in product descriptions.

Pearls are organic and require care: avoid chemicals, prolonged moisture and ultrasonic cleaning. Store away from direct heat and allow pearls to breathe (avoid sealed plastic). See our Jewelry Care page for details.

Traceability & Sourcing

We are committed to responsible sourcing. Our precious metals and diamonds are obtained from suppliers who adhere to internationally recognised standards (e.g. Kimberley Process for diamonds, and chain-of-custody or equivalent schemes where we require them). We do not use conflict materials and we expect our partners to uphold human rights and environmental practices. Questions about a specific piece or our sourcing policy can be directed to us via the Contact page.

For how we set and finish these materials, see Craftsmanship & Quality. For care instructions by material, see Jewelry Care.